A Lesson in Dogs

Kim’s previous post got me thinking about Mitchell’s origins. He is Lab and Rhodesian Ridgeback, and I alays wonder which of his characteristics are from which breed. Also, where do these breeds come from?! They didn’t just appear out of thin air.

So, thanks to Iams.com (the dog food brand) I got a doggy education. Rhodesians are of large size, averaging 75 pounds. They are difficult breeds to find. Their ridge on their back grows in the opposite direction of the rest of their coat. They originated amongst native South African tribes in the 16th and 17th centuries. They looked after children and protected property against lions. No really, they did. This earned them the nickname, the African Lion Hound. They are prone to problems such asdermoid sinus (whatever that is), hip dysplasia and cysts (Mitchell gets them somewhat frequently and has had one removed). They are aggressive towards male dogs and do not like non-canine animals. They need lots of exercise and are excellent jogging companions.

Labs are also large and can be between 65-85 pounds. This makes sense, because Mitchell has been 65, 75 AND 85 pounds. (Not all at once). Typically he is about 75. This breed is very popular. Labs originate in Newfoundland, Canada. They were used to bring fishing nets to shore. They are susceptible to hip dysplasia, PRA and eye disorders (again, I don’t know). They love to swim. Mitchell does not love to swim, but you can’t have everything. Typically, they are not dog-aggressive and like other animals (Mitchell clearly does not have this trait). They love everyone (true) and need sufficient exercise (also true). Like Rhodesians, Labs also make great jogging partners.

I’m pleased that a lot of this was accurate for Mitchell. It’s neat to see where he came from. Except for the jogging part…that’s not happening anytime soon .

What’s your dog’s history?

Alison Floyd

10 Responses

Do you ever watch Dog 101 on Animal Planet? It’s a pretty “quick summary” of whatever breeds they are featuring that day, usually 3-4 breeds in one show. They tell you where the breed comes from, what its personality traits and health conditions are, how much grooming and exercise they need, etc. It’s light and fun tv!

Rachel- that’s a fun mix for a dog! And I love boxers, I think I’d like one someday. Mitchell loves sleeping on the pillows. The other morning I rolled over in bed and he was laying next to me looking at me, haha.

This breed is also a welcomed competitor, and I’ve seen them run, at sight hound events like lure coursing. It’s part of what made them great lion hunters. Check out the eligible breeds listing:http://www.asfa.org/breeds/index.htm

Don’t ever get stuck trying to treat the breed of your dog instead of your whole dog as a dog. It’s interesting and fun, and can help you figure out some things, like you did, but never let it cause distraction, indecision or bog you down in how you treat your dog.

Remember, as Cesar says, it’s first animal, dog, breed and then name. We tend to treat them in the opposite order. Lead first, and save your kisses and using the name for when they are calm and submissive.

Oh, and this also speaks volumes of why people should do a little research before they bring a dog home. Learn what types of dogs will best suit your lifestyle – energy level, temperament, grooming and health needs, etc. It’s a good idea if adding a second dog to your home to choose one with a lower energy than the current resident if that one is high to very high energy.

Be honest, and you will have the perfect companion for many years to come. Only lead with your heart, and you might wind up being one of the people trying to rehome their over-energetic dog that they have no time for or nipping at baby, or one with whom I work to try and keep the dog in the home with some training (mostly of the human).

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